Kashmir Birding Tour 6Nights/7Days
Kashmir Birding Tour 6Nights/7Days
No. of days
7
Trip Type
#
Activity Level
Moderate
Experiences
Best time
October to April
Region
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Overview
Kashmir, located in the northernmost part of India, is a beautiful region known for its breathtaking scenery and rich wildlife. The valley is surrounded by majestic mountains, filled with colorful meadows, clear rivers, thick forests, and grassy highlands. These diverse landscapes make Kashmir an excellent place for birdwatching and spotting rare animals.
A highlight of the region is Dachigam National Park, located close to Srinagar. Dachigam is not only a birdwatcher’s paradise but also a crucial sanctuary for the rare Hangul or Kashmir stag, as well as safe home to Himalayan Black Bear and the elusive Brown Bears . The park’s mixed forests, alpine meadows, and rolling terrain support the endangered Hangul or Kashmir Stag—a species found only here—alongside jackals, leopards, and yellow-throated martens. Bird species abound too, from majestic Himalayan Griffons, Besra, Northern Goshawk and Lammergeiers soaring overhead to vibrant finches like Spectacled Finch, Orange Bullfinch, Great Rosefinch, Pale Rosefinch, Pink-browed Rosefinch, and elusive owls like Long-eared Owl, Tawny Owl, Oriental Scops Owl, Eurasian Eagle Owl, hidden in the woods.
What truly sets Kashmir apart as an extraordinary birding destination is its position at the crossroads of the Himalayas and the vast Palearctic region. This means it hosts not only remarkable resident birds but also an array of migratory and vagrant species during different seasons. The region hosts both winter visitors escaping the colder climes of europe and central asia like Mallards, Northern Pintail, Greylag Geese, Gadwall, Eurasian Wigeon, Common Teal, Common Pochard, Red-crested Pochard, Great Bittern, Falcated Duck and Tufted Duck and many more as well as summer breeders like Blue-tailed bee-eater, Barn Swallow. Birders come here to chase endemic specialties of western Himalayas such as the Kashmir Flycatcher, Kashmir Nutcracker, White-throated Tit, Kashmir Nuthatch, White-cheeked Nuthatch, Cheer Pheasant, Western Tragopan and many more—species not seen elsewhere in India.
Besides its natural beauty and rich wildlife, Kashmir has a rich culture and warm-hearted people. From exploring the lively markets of Srinagar to relaxing on the traditional houseboats in Dal Lake, visitors get to experience the local life and taste delicious Kashmiri food.
This combination of stunning nature, rich wildlife, and beautiful culture makes Kashmir a wonderful destination for anyone interested in birds, animals, and a peaceful escape to the mountains.
Trip Highlights
- Search for endemic and rare birds like Orange Bullfinch, Cheer Pheasant, Western Tragopan, Kashmir Flycatcher, and Rufous-tailed Flycatcher.
- Experience diverse habitats: alpine meadows, riverine woodlands, dense forests, and high-altitude grasslands.
- Visit Dachigam National Park, renowned for the endangered Hangul deer, Himalayan Griffon, Lammergeier, and Tawny Owl.
- Birdwatch in iconic locations such as Shankaracharya Temple, Gulmarg’s meadows, and Sonmarg’s streams.
- Encounter mammals including Himalayan Langur, Leopards, Himalayan Black Bear, and Jackals.
- Dive into Kashmiri culture with visits to Srinagar’s markets, historic sites, and houseboats.
Image Galllery
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Delhi – Cultural Exploration
Upon Arrival to Delhi, the capital of India. We will be spending the day visiting the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and a magnificent example of Mughal architecture set in peaceful gardens. Then head to India Gate, a grand monument that honors the soldiers of India and is surrounded by lovely green spaces perfect for a relaxing stroll.. After soaking in the history and architecture, we dive into Delhi’s bustling marketplace at Khan Market, where you can browse a wide variety of boutiques, handicrafts, and enjoy tasting delicious local delicious local food. This day gives you a wonderful introduction to India’s rich history and lively culture, preparing you for your journey north to Kashmir.
Day 2: Flight to Srinagar – Evening Birding at Shankaracharya Temple
We will take a direct flight from Delhi to Srinagar, which typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. After arriving, you will settle into your accommodation near the beautiful Dal Lake. Srinagar is surrounded by lakes, rivers, and lush gardens, making it a perfect habitat for many resident and migratory birds. In the evening, head to the Shankaracharya Temple area for your first birdwatching experience, where you get to spot the Kashmir Flycatcher, Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler, and Rufous-tailed Flycatcher, and many more all while enjoying stunning panoramic views of the Kashmir Valley.
Day 3: Full Day at Dachigam National Park
We will spend the day exploring the rich biodiversity of Dachigam National Park, one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in Kashmir. The park is the last stronghold of the rare and endangered Hangul deer, which inhabits dense riverine forests, alpine meadows, and rolling grasslands. Alongside the Hangul, we’ll search for the elusive Himalayan Black and Brown Bear, often found in the park’s wooded valleys.
Birdwatching highlights include raptors like the Northern Goshawk, Lammergeier, Besra, and Himalayan Griffon, as well as the mysterious Tawny Owl. While walking through vibrant meadows sprinkled with wildflowers.
Day 4: Birdwatching in Gulmarg
We will drive to Gulmarg and enjoy birding in the alpine meadowland renowned for species like Black-and-yellow Grosbeak, Variegated Laughingthrush, Ultramarine Flycatcher, Chestnut Thrush, and Eurasian Hobby.
Day 5: Explore Sonmarg’s Streams and Meadows
We will venture to Sonmarg, located about 80 kilometers from Srinagar, a scenic drive that takes around 2 to 3 hours through winding mountain roads. Here, you will be surrounded by crystal-clear streams and lush meadows. We will be looking for birds like the Slaty-blue Flycatcher, Indian Blue Robin, Red-fronted Serin, and Scaly-bellied Woodpecker. The pristine habitat supports a rich variety of songbirds and waterfowl, making it a perfect spot for birdwatchers.
Day 6: Leisure Day in Srinagar
We will spend the morning birding in Srinagar’s beautiful botanical gardens, where you can spot species like the Himalayan Bulbul, Kashmir Flycatcher, and various sparrows and warblers. Later in the day, enjoy a relaxing houseboat tour on Dal Lake or explore the local crafts and heritage sites.
Day 7: Departure – Fly back to Delhi and onward
Transfer to Srinagar airport for your flight back to Delhi followed by your onward journey home, carrying unforgettable memories of the Kashmir birding experience
No. of days
7
Trip Type
#
Activity Level
Moderate
Experiences
Best time
October to April
Region
Overview
Kashmir, located in the northernmost part of India, is a beautiful region known for its breathtaking scenery and rich wildlife. The valley is surrounded by majestic mountains, filled with colorful meadows, clear rivers, thick forests, and grassy highlands. These diverse landscapes make Kashmir an excellent place for birdwatching and spotting rare animals.
A highlight of the region is Dachigam National Park, located close to Srinagar. Dachigam is not only a birdwatcher’s paradise but also a crucial sanctuary for the rare Hangul or Kashmir stag, as well as safe home to Himalayan Black Bear and the elusive Brown Bears . The park’s mixed forests, alpine meadows, and rolling terrain support the endangered Hangul or Kashmir Stag—a species found only here—alongside jackals, leopards, and yellow-throated martens. Bird species abound too, from majestic Himalayan Griffons, Besra, Northern Goshawk and Lammergeiers soaring overhead to vibrant finches like Spectacled Finch, Orange Bullfinch, Great Rosefinch, Pale Rosefinch, Pink-browed Rosefinch, and elusive owls like Long-eared Owl, Tawny Owl, Oriental Scops Owl, Eurasian Eagle Owl, hidden in the woods.
What truly sets Kashmir apart as an extraordinary birding destination is its position at the crossroads of the Himalayas and the vast Palearctic region. This means it hosts not only remarkable resident birds but also an array of migratory and vagrant species during different seasons. The region hosts both winter visitors escaping the colder climes of europe and central asia like Mallards, Northern Pintail, Greylag Geese, Gadwall, Eurasian Wigeon, Common Teal, Common Pochard, Red-crested Pochard, Great Bittern, Falcated Duck and Tufted Duck and many more as well as summer breeders like Blue-tailed bee-eater, Barn Swallow. Birders come here to chase endemic specialties of western Himalayas such as the Kashmir Flycatcher, Kashmir Nutcracker, White-throated Tit, Kashmir Nuthatch, White-cheeked Nuthatch, Cheer Pheasant, Western Tragopan and many more—species not seen elsewhere in India.
Besides its natural beauty and rich wildlife, Kashmir has a rich culture and warm-hearted people. From exploring the lively markets of Srinagar to relaxing on the traditional houseboats in Dal Lake, visitors get to experience the local life and taste delicious Kashmiri food.
This combination of stunning nature, rich wildlife, and beautiful culture makes Kashmir a wonderful destination for anyone interested in birds, animals, and a peaceful escape to the mountains.
Trip Highlights
- Search for endemic and rare birds like Orange Bullfinch, Cheer Pheasant, Western Tragopan, Kashmir Flycatcher, and Rufous-tailed Flycatcher.
- Experience diverse habitats: alpine meadows, riverine woodlands, dense forests, and high-altitude grasslands.
- Visit Dachigam National Park, renowned for the endangered Hangul deer, Himalayan Griffon, Lammergeier, and Tawny Owl.
- Birdwatch in iconic locations such as Shankaracharya Temple, Gulmarg’s meadows, and Sonmarg’s streams.
- Encounter mammals including Himalayan Langur, Leopards, Himalayan Black Bear, and Jackals.
- Dive into Kashmiri culture with visits to Srinagar’s markets, historic sites, and houseboats.
Image Galllery
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Delhi – Cultural Exploration
Upon Arrival to Delhi, the capital of India. We will be spending the day visiting the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Humayun’s Tomb, a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site and a magnificent example of Mughal architecture set in peaceful gardens. Then head to India Gate, a grand monument that honors the soldiers of India and is surrounded by lovely green spaces perfect for a relaxing stroll.. After soaking in the history and architecture, we dive into Delhi’s bustling marketplace at Khan Market, where you can browse a wide variety of boutiques, handicrafts, and enjoy tasting delicious local delicious local food. This day gives you a wonderful introduction to India’s rich history and lively culture, preparing you for your journey north to Kashmir.
Day 2: Flight to Srinagar – Evening Birding at Shankaracharya Temple
We will take a direct flight from Delhi to Srinagar, which typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. After arriving, you will settle into your accommodation near the beautiful Dal Lake. Srinagar is surrounded by lakes, rivers, and lush gardens, making it a perfect habitat for many resident and migratory birds. In the evening, head to the Shankaracharya Temple area for your first birdwatching experience, where you get to spot the Kashmir Flycatcher, Brownish-flanked Bush Warbler, and Rufous-tailed Flycatcher, and many more all while enjoying stunning panoramic views of the Kashmir Valley.
Day 3: Full Day at Dachigam National Park
We will spend the day exploring the rich biodiversity of Dachigam National Park, one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in Kashmir. The park is the last stronghold of the rare and endangered Hangul deer, which inhabits dense riverine forests, alpine meadows, and rolling grasslands. Alongside the Hangul, we’ll search for the elusive Himalayan Black and Brown Bear, often found in the park’s wooded valleys.
Birdwatching highlights include raptors like the Northern Goshawk, Lammergeier, Besra, and Himalayan Griffon, as well as the mysterious Tawny Owl. While walking through vibrant meadows sprinkled with wildflowers.
Day 4: Birdwatching in Gulmarg
We will drive to Gulmarg and enjoy birding in the alpine meadowland renowned for species like Black-and-yellow Grosbeak, Variegated Laughingthrush, Ultramarine Flycatcher, Chestnut Thrush, and Eurasian Hobby.
Day 5: Explore Sonmarg’s Streams and Meadows
We will venture to Sonmarg, located about 80 kilometers from Srinagar, a scenic drive that takes around 2 to 3 hours through winding mountain roads. Here, you will be surrounded by crystal-clear streams and lush meadows. We will be looking for birds like the Slaty-blue Flycatcher, Indian Blue Robin, Red-fronted Serin, and Scaly-bellied Woodpecker. The pristine habitat supports a rich variety of songbirds and waterfowl, making it a perfect spot for birdwatchers.
Day 6: Leisure Day in Srinagar
We will spend the morning birding in Srinagar’s beautiful botanical gardens, where you can spot species like the Himalayan Bulbul, Kashmir Flycatcher, and various sparrows and warblers. Later in the day, enjoy a relaxing houseboat tour on Dal Lake or explore the local crafts and heritage sites.
Day 7: Departure – Fly back to Delhi and onward
Transfer to Srinagar airport for your flight back to Delhi followed by your onward journey home, carrying unforgettable memories of the Kashmir birding experience
